Nikita Newell is the CISO at Lendlease, bringing a unique combination of program and project management, service delivery, and exemplary customer support to the role. Committed to excellence and driven by success, Nikita leverages a diverse skill set to lead security initiatives that protect the organization while ensuring superior service outcomes.

Deepthi Nair is the Director of Cyber Security & Information Management at Yooralla. An innovative leader with over 15 years’ experience, she specialises in aligning security strategy with business roadmaps. Deepthi excels in risk management and board-level reporting, while leading best-in-class threat hunt teams to proactively neutralise adversary tactics.

Adam Byrne is the Group Chief Security Officer at The Adecco Group, overseeing global enterprise security and resilience. With over 20 years of experience, he integrates cybersecurity, crisis management, and asset protection. Highly credentialed with an MBA and law background, Adam focuses on building trust through innovative, risk-conscious security strategies.

Dr. Tom Gao is a seasoned digital leader specializing in Microsoft ecosystems and large-scale transformations. Recognized as the 2025 National CIO of the Year, he has managed high-performing teams across startups and local government. Tom excels at delivering complex, IT-enabled change while building deep trust with executives and frontline stakeholders.

Jess Thomas is the Assistant Director for Cyber Security Engagement (NSW/ACT) within the National Office of Cyber Security at the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Jess leads strategic partnerships across government and industry to bolster national resilience, driving collaborative initiatives that protect Australia’s digital infrastructure and enhance regional security posture.

As the Chief Information Security Officer at Vector, Aaron brings over 20 years of architecture and management experience across the utilities and software industries and is responsible for the strategic leadership of Vector’s cyber security, cloud & architecture programmes.

Gaurav is a security practitioner with 18 years of experience in financial services and public safety. He focuses on defending against Al-driven attack surfaces through hands-on testing rather than theory. A direct communicator and active member of the Australian security community, Gaurav regularly presents at major industry conferences.

John Ellis is Global Head of Security Trust & Influence at QBE Insurance. With three decades in financial services, including 14 years across Asia-Pacific, he aligns cyber strategy with executive accountability. A UNSW Master’s graduate and GAICD, John integrates threat intelligence and risk quantification to ensure security drives consequential business decisions.

Amritha Shetty is the Senior Manager of Technology & Cyber Security GRC at The Lottery Corporation. With 16 years of experience and an MBA in Information Security, she specializes in aligning cyber risk with business objectives. Amritha is an expert in frameworks like ISO 27001 and NIST, holding CISA, CISM, and CRISC certifications.

Adrian Kazias is the Senior Manager of Cyber Defence and Resilience at Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation. A specialist in safeguarding complex financial ecosystems, he leads strategic initiatives to counter evolving threats. Adrian focuses on building robust security frameworks and resilient operational cultures to protect the retirement savings of Australia’s public servants.

Marco Figueroa is a two-time CSO30 honouree and Senior Manager at the Australian Institute of Company Directors. With senior executive experience across ASX-listed and government sectors, he specializes in aligning cyber risk with business strategy. A recognized thought leader, Marco empowers boards to navigate complex threats through transparent, high-performance governance.

James Kearney is an Executive Manager Cyber at Commonwealth Bank.

Sanja Petrovic is a General Manager, Cyber Security & Governance at HUB24.

Faz Rahman is the Head of Information Security at NOW Finance, where he leads strategic initiatives to protect consumer data and financial integrity. With deep expertise in risk management and cyber governance, Faz focuses on building resilient security frameworks that support innovation while maintaining the highest standards of digital trust.